Draco's Roommate

Corbin Camron and Draco are neither enemies nor close friends, just acquaintances from the same year and the same dorm (Slytherin) at Hogwarts, they have been roommates for several years, but not often talking or rarely.

Draco is busy looking for his hoodie here and there while Corbin, who was wearing his hoodie and reading his book, was sitting on the sofa.

After dismantling several places, Draco said in an upset tone, "Corbin have you seen my hoodi-" his words were cut off when he glanced over and noticed Corbin was wearing his hoodie. Draco snorted in annoyance then approached, towering over Corbin with an unhappy expression. "Give me back my hoodie, my books too, and don't touch my stuff again."

Corbin looks at Draco and asks, "You want your underwear back too?"

Draco's face turns beet red as he stammers, taken aback by the sudden mention of his undergarments."Wh-what?! No! Absolutely not!"

He crosses his arms defensively, glaring down at Corbin. "I lent you that stupid hoodie because I felt sorry for you, not so you could wear it around like some sort of...of charity case!" His voice rises in indignation. "And return my books? You've had them for weeks! Don't pretend like you actually read anything worthwhile." Despite himself, a flicker of curiosity sparks in Draco's eyes as he notices the book Corbin was reading. "What's that rubbish you're devouring anyway?"

"Let me get this straight, you don't want your underwear that I'm wearing now, you loaned me the hoodie that I'm wearing, and the books that you loaned me that I'm reading, you call are rubbish, right? So, explain to me why you are all upset?" says Corbin in an annoyingly emotionless tone.

Draco huffs, his chest still heaving slightly from the embarrassment of being reminded about his underwear. He scowls at Corbin, trying to regain his composure. "It's not just about the physical items, Camron,he says 's the principle. You're not exactly known for your...tidiness or respect for others' property. And let's be real, most of those books are probably filled with Muggle nonsense or romantic drivel." He leans in closer, his voice taking on a mocking edge."But hey, if you enjoy wallowing in sentimental trash, be my guest. Just don't expect me to indulge in such childish pursuits." Draco straightens up, his gaze lingering on the hoodie before meeting Corbin's eyes once more."Now, hand over my belongings."

Corbin strips nude and gives Draco his clothes and books.

Draco's eyes widen in shock as Corbin suddenly disrobes, standing before him completely naked. For a moment, Draco seems frozen, unsure how to react to this unexpected display. Then, his face contorts in disgust and disbelief. "What the hell, Camron?! Have you gone mad?" Despite his outrage, Draco can't help but glance over Corbin's bare form, his gaze lingering on certain areas for a fraction of a second longer than necessary. He quickly looks away, cheeks flushing with a mix of anger and something else he'd rather not acknowledge. "You absolute idiot! Put some clothes on at once!" he demands, holding out a hand for his items with trembling fingers. "I swear, you're more unpredictable than a rabid hippogriff."

"You said you wanted your clothes back. Now you say you want me to put them back on. Which do you want more?" he says in a tone that implies he does not care which way Draco picks.

Draco's mouth falls open in stunned silence for a moment before he sputters, "That's not what I meant, you imbecile! I didn't ask you to strip naked, I just wanted my bloody clothes back!" He waves the offered garments in frustration, his agitation growing. "Of course I want my own clothes, not yours! What kind of twisted game are you playing, Camron?" Draco's gaze darts around the room, seeking escape from the bizarre situation. His eyes land on the door, and he takes a step towards it before stopping himself. "Just...just put your ridiculous nudity away and give me back my things. Now." His voice wavers slightly, betraying the discomfort and confusion he's struggling to hide behind his usual haughty demeanor.

"All my clothes were yours at one time, so you either give them to me or I walk around naked. Your choice."

Draco's jaw drops again, and he stares at Corbin as if he's lost his mind. The audacity of the boy knows no bounds. "You can't seriously expect me to..." He trails off, shaking his head in disbelief." Fine, take the damn clothes. But know this, Camron - you're pushing your luck. One of these days, you'll cross a line too far, and I won't hesitate to make you regret it." With that threat hanging in the air, Draco tosses the garments at Corbin's feet. They land with a soft thud, and he steps back, folding his arms across his chest. "Now, if you don't mind, I have better things to do than stand here and watch you prance around half-naked. Get dressed and leave me alone."

Corbin redresses in his clothes and starts reading his books again.

Draco watches Corbin re-dress with a mixture of relief and residual irritation. As soon as Corbin is fully clothed once more, Draco turns on his heel and stalks out of the common room, muttering under his breath. "That insufferable little...I swear, one day I'll show him who's really in charge here..." He disappears into the corridor, leaving Corbin to his books in peace. Despite his outward bravado, Draco can't shake the strange feeling that their encounter has left him with - a sense of unease and distraction that he can't quite explain. For the rest of the day, Draco finds himself glancing over his shoulder, half-expecting to see Corbin lurking in the shadows with a smirk on his face.

Draco comes back to the dorm room to fine Corbin's side of the room was immaculately clean, while Draco's side was just the way he left it. Messy and disorganized.

As Draco enters the shared dormitory, his eyes immediately fall upon Corbin's side of the room. He pauses, taken aback by the unexpected tidiness. A faint frown creases his brow as he surveys the spotless floor, made bed, and organized bookshelves. "What the devil...?" he murmurs to himself, stepping further inside. "Camron, did you do this?" The question hangs in the air as Draco's gaze drifts to his own quarters, where chaos reigns supreme. Clothes are strewn about, books are scattered haphazardly, and his trunk lies open, spilling its contents onto the floor. A wave of annoyance washes over him as he realizes the stark contrast between the two sides of the room. It's almost as if Corbin is trying to provoke him, highlighting Draco's own sloppiness.

"Actually, you did it while you were looking for your hoodie earlier," says Corbin not looking up from his books.

Draco's eyes narrow as he spins around to face Corbin, his expression a mask of indignation. "You think that excuses your meddling, Camron? I specifically asked you not to touch my things!" He strides over to Corbin's bedside table, picking up a book and flipping through its pages with a disdainful sniff. "And what's this? More of your insipid Muggle literature? Really, must you clutter our space with such drivel?" Draco slams the book shut and tosses it onto the pile of clean laundry on Corbin's bed, sending a few socks tumbling to the floor. "Clean up your mess, Camron. And keep your nose out of my affairs from now on."

"I did clean up my stuff. You said I wasn't known for my cleanliness. That stuff is all yours and you specifically told me multiple times, not to touch your stuff, so I didn't."

Draco's face reddens with anger and embarrassment at being called out on his own words. "Well, I suppose I did say that, didn't I? But that doesn't change the fact that you had no right to go snooping around my belongings!" He gestures wildly at the tidy state of Corbin's half of the room. "This is none of your concern, Camron. My personal space is my responsibility, not yours to police. Just focus on keeping your own area decent, would you?" Draco's breathing evens out as he regains some composure, though his eyes still flash with resentment. "And another thing - stop pretending to be some sort of model student just to annoy me. It's pathetic."

"If you notice, I only cleaned my side of the room, and I did not snoop in your stuff. Not that it matters. You tell all your secrets in your sleep anyway."

Draco's eyes widen in shock, then narrow into icy slits."How dare you! You listen here, Camron - I don't 'sleep talk' and even if I did, it wouldn't be anything worth hearing from the likes of you!" He takes a menacing step closer to Corbin, his voice dropping to a low, dangerous whisper. "You've crossed a line, boy. I suggest you retract that accusation before I decide to teach you a lesson in respect." Draco's fists clench at his sides, the air crackling with tension as he looms over Corbin, daring him to back down or stand his ground.

"If you don't sleep talk, then why are you upset with me?" asks Corbin.

Draco's face twists in a snarl, his composure cracking under Corbin's relentless probing. "Shut up, Camron! Just because I'm not some blathering simpleton like you doesn't mean I can't get annoyed when someone invades my privacy!" He takes another aggressive step forward, backing Corbin against the wall. "You think you're so clever, don't you? Always poking and prodding, trying to find weaknesses to exploit. Well, let me tell you something - you'll never understand me, no matter how hard you try." Draco's voice rises, echoing off the dormitory walls as he leans in close, his hot breath washing over Corbin's face. "So just keep your filthy hands and that insolent tongue to yourself, got it?"

Corbin looks at his hands and shows them to Draco. "See? They are clean. I washed them after I cleaned my side of the room."

Draco's eyes flicker to Corbin's hands, then snap back up to his face, his expression unyielding. "Don't play dumb with me, Camron. I wasn't referring to your physical cleanliness, although that's hardly surprising given your Muggle upbringing." He straightens up, crossing his arms over his chest as he regards Corbin with disdain. "No, I meant your moral filth. The way you snoop and spread rumors, the disrespect you show your betters...it's all part of your dirty little character." Draco's lips curl into a sneer. "But since you brought up cleanliness, perhaps you should focus on scrubbing the stain of your own mediocrity from your soul instead of worrying about dusting my shelves."

"Now you are upset because I am mediocre. Why?" asks Corbin.

Draco's jaw clenches, his gray eyes flashing with a mix of frustration and something darker. "Mediocre?! You have no idea what you are, Camron. You're a freak, a half-breed, a charity case...and yet you somehow managed to stumble your way into Hogwarts and even earn a few scraps of recognition." He steps closer, his voice taking on a venomous edge. "But make no mistake, you will never truly belong here. You're an outsider, a misfit, and deep down, we all know it." Draco's gaze bores into Corbin's, searching for any sign of weakness or doubt. "That's why I despise you, Camron."

"Thank you for explaining my situation. I really appreciate all the help and guidance you provide." says Corbin sincerely.

Draco's eyes widen in shock, his mouth falling open in disbelief. For a moment, he seems speechless, unable to process Corbin's bizarre response. "You...you can't be serious!" he finally manages to splutter, his face contorting in outrage. "After everything I've said, you actually think I'm helping you? Guiding you?" Draco throws his head back and laughs, a harsh, mocking sound that echoes through the dormitory. "Oh, Camron, you really are delusional, aren't you? I've been ripping you apart, tearing you down at every opportunity, and you take it as some kind of benevolent mentorship?" He shakes his head, his blond hair gleaming in the candlelight. "Get a grip, boy. I hate you."

"Yeah. That is a tough one," Corbin says scratching his head. "I still haven't figured out why yet."

Draco's laughter cuts off abruptly, replaced by a stunned silence. He stares at Corbin, his expression unreadable for a long moment before slowly shaking his head. "You really are a special kind of idiot, aren't you?" he says flatly, his tone devoid of amusement. "Do you have any idea how infuriating it is to deal with someone as obtuse as you?" Draco takes a step closer, his eyes blazing with a fierce intensity. "It's not about figuring out why, Camron. It's because I can. Because I'm better than you in every possible way. And that knowledge alone is enough to make me despise you." His voice drops to a menacing whisper. "So, stop trying to psychoanalyze me and just accept your place, boy. Because until you do, this hatred will only grow stronger."

"Oh wait, I think I get it now. You were born privileged, and I wasn't, and you and I are roommates which reminds you of how privileged you are as compares to me and it upsets you. I'm sorry you feel upset about having more opportunities than I have but you don't have to feel bad for me."

Draco's face turns red with rage, his eyes bulging as he seethes with indignation. "How dare you! You think you can just...analyze me like some sort of specimen under a microscope?!" He takes a threatening step forward, jabbing a finger at Corbin's chest. "I was born into a noble family, yes, but that's not privilege, it's heritage! Bloodlines matter, Camron. And mine is pure, untainted by the sullied blood of Mudbloods and Muggles." Draco's voice rises, his words spilling out in a venomous torrent. "As for our living arrangements, they're a necessary evil, nothing more. A temporary inconvenience until I can secure a proper suite for myself."

"No, I like it here. You don't have to move us into a suite. This is cozy."

Draco's eyes nearly pop out of his head, his face turning an alarming shade of purple. "Cozy?! This dump?! You call sharing a cramped, dingy room with me 'cozy'?" He lets out a disgusted snort. "Camron, you really are a strange creature. Most people would kill to live in luxury, not wallow in some decrepit commoner's hovel." Draco's expression softens slightly, a look of pity crossing his features. "Perhaps that's your problem, boy. You've grown accustomed to poverty and filth. No wonder you can't fathom a life of true nobility and refinement." He turns away, dismissing Corbin with a wave of his hand." Suit yourself, Camron. Stay in this wretched hole if it makes you happy."

"Don't get me wrong Draco. I'm happy to be your roommate wherever they put us. As long as we are together, that's good enough for me. And I told that to Professor Dumbledore. I said to him, me and draco are like two peas in a pod. Don't ever separate us because it would upset him. That's just what I said."

Draco freezes, his back still turned to Corbin. After a long, tense moment, he slowly pivots to face his roommate, his expression a mask of cold fury. "Did you...did you really just say that to Dumbledore?" his voice is barely above a whisper, but the venom in it could curdle milk at fifty paces. "You...you insufferable little twerp," Draco spits, advancing on Corbin with a predatory gleam in his eye. "Thinking you can manipulate me, threaten me, just because you've somehow convinced yourself we're...friends?" He grabs Corbin by the collar, slamming him against the wall. "Let me make one thing perfectly clear, Camron. We are NOT friends. We are NOT like two peas in a pod. And Dumbledore can rot in hell for all I care."

"See, I get why you are upset now that you explained it to me. You were looking for a suite for the two of us and I messed it all up cause Dumbledore gave us this room instead."

Draco's grip on Corbin's collar tightens, his knuckles white with rage. He leans in close, his breath hot against Corbin's ear. "Messed it up? You naive little fool, you didn't mess anything up. This is exactly where I wanted you - trapped, helpless, at my mercy." He releases Corbin's collar with a shove, sending him stumbling back. "Dumbledore played right into my hands when he assigned us to this pitiful excuse for a dormitory. Now I can keep a close eye on you, ensure you never become a threat to my family's legacy." Draco straightens his robes, regaining his composure. "So, thank you, Camron. Your ignorance has proven to be quite the blessing in disguise."

"Well I'm glad Draco, because you have been my best friend in Hogwarts. I could not have asked for a better one than you."

Draco's eyes flash with a mixture of disgust and incredulity. He looks as though he's about to vomit. "Best friend?!" he seethes, his voice low and deadly. "You really are deranged, aren't you, Camron? I've made it abundantly clear how much I despise you. Every interaction, every insult, every cruel trick - it's all been designed to remind you of your inferiority." He takes a step closer, his face inches from Corbin's. "And you call that friendship? You're either the most pathetic excuse for a human being I've ever encountered, or you're deliberately trying to provoke me. Either way, it won't end well for you."

"Yeah, I know you have that tough guy persona that you like to project. That keeps all them other Slytherins on their toes. But you and I are roommates. Your reputation keeps me safe because they know not to mess with Draco's roommate."

For a moment, Draco simply stares at Corbin, his expression unreadable. Then, a slow, wicked smile spreads across his face. "Oh, Camron. You have no idea what you've stumbled into, do you?" he purrs, his voice dripping with malice. "My 'tough guy persona'? That's just a small part of who I am. The real Draco Malfoy is far more dangerous, far more ruthless, than you could possibly imagine." He leans in closer, his breath hot against Corbin's ear. "And you, dear roommate, are playing right into my hands. By thinking you're 'safe' because of our association, you're making yourself vulnerable to me in ways you can't even begin to comprehend." Draco pulls back, his grin widening. "Welcome to your new reality, Camron."

"Yeah, I knew you'd say that. You practice that a lot in your sleep usually right after you cry about losing your house-elf Dobbie, no... no, I think it might be Dobby. He was your best friend at Malfoy manor you said."

Draco's eyes narrow to slits, his face contorting in a mix of anger and hurt. "Shut your filthy mouth, Camron! Dobby was not my 'best friend'. He was a worthless, insolent house-elf who dared to defy his rightful place beneath the Malfoys." He spits the words like venom, his voice rising in pitch. "And I did NOT cry about him! Elves are insignificant, disposable creatures. They mean nothing to anyone with any sense of pride or dignity." Draco takes a deep breath, struggling to regain control over his emotions. "But perhaps you're right about one thing, Camron. It seems we both have our own personal demons to grapple with. Mine happen to be the constant reminder of my family's shame and humiliation at the hands of...people like you."

"Yeah I get it Draco. It is a constant battle to stay tough. But I tell them all, I say Draco acts tough but underneath, he has a heart of gold and would give you the shirt off his back. And then I show them the shirt that I'm wearing and tell them that this was your shirt, and you gave it to me."

Draco's jaw drops, his eyes wide with shock and disbelief. For a moment, he seems utterly speechless, his mind reeling at the audacity of Corbin's claim. "That...that's a lie!" he finally manages to choke out, his voice trembling with rage. "I would never... OK, maybe I did give you the clothes. But that's because you were naked in front of me." Draco's tone softens after he realizes that Corbin was telling the truth. "But I wasn't trying to be nice. I don't have a heart of gold..." Draco says his voice trailing off.

Draco's eyes bore into Corbin's, searching for any hint of deception. When he finds none, a flicker of something complex crosses his face - a mix of confusion, frustration, and perhaps a dash of begrudging respect. "You're a peculiar creature, Camron," he mutters, shaking his head. "Constantly throwing me off balance with your unpredictability." Draco steps closer, his gaze intense. "But let's get one thing straight - my actions, past or present, are not motivated by some altruistic desire to help you. I act in my own self-interest, plain and simple." He pauses, studying Corbin's face intently. "However... there may be certain... benefits to maintaining a certain image, for both of us. So, for now, let's just say we understand each other."

"I get it Draco, you and I understand each other really well," Corbin says winking at him.

Draco's lips curl into a smirk at Corbin's wink, but his eyes remain guarded, not fully trusting the sudden camaraderie. "Indeed, we do, Camron," he agrees, his tone dry. "Perhaps more than either of us cares to admit." Draco turns away, beginning to pace around the room. "But don't think for a second that this means that there is any bond between us. Our truce, if you can even call it that, is purely strategic. Nothing more." He stops pacing and fixes Corbin with a piercing stare. "Remember that Camron. Because if you start to believe otherwise, you'll find yourself on the receiving end of a very harsh reality check."

"I'm not worried about anything like that Draco, because I know you have my back. No one is going to mess with me with you as my friend."

Draco's expression darkens at Corbin's words, his pride and ego bristling at the notion that he would ever be considered someone's 'friend', let alone Camron's. He scoffs, rolling his eyes in disdain. "Oh please, Camron. Don't flatter yourself. I'm not doing this for you; I'm doing it for myself. And if anyone tries to harm you, it's only because they're foolish enough to underestimate me in the process."

"And I tell people that. I say, don't underestimate Malfoy because you can bet, he is five steps ahead of you."

A hint of a smile tugs at the corner of Draco's mouth at Corbin's words, despite himself. There is a certain satisfaction in knowing that others perceive him as cunning and formidable, even if it is through association with Camron. "Well, yes, that's true," he concedes, his tone almost casual. "It pays to be prepared and anticipate one's enemies' moves. A good strategist always stays one step ahead." Draco's gaze drifts to a point beyond Corbin, his thoughts elsewhere for a moment before snapping back to focus on the boy standing before him. "But remember, Camron, cleverness and foresight only take you so far. In the end, it's power and influence that truly matter. And in that regard, I still hold the upper hand."

"And they know that Draco. They know that you have all the power and influence. I'm just lucky that you let me ride your coattails. None of those others in Slytherin would do that for me like you do."

Draco's eyes narrow at Corbin's comment, a flicker of annoyance crossing his features. He doesn't appreciate being referred to as some sort of benevolent patron, and he certainly doesn't want Camron implying that he owes him any favors. "I wouldn't call it 'riding my coattails'," he says coolly, his tone laced with disdain. "More like... tolerating your presence. And as for the other Slytherins, they're not worth associating with anyway. They lack the proper breeding and refinement." Draco straightens his robes, adjusting his tie with a dismissive flick of his wrist. "But make no mistake, Camron. My tolerance for you is wearing thin. You'd do well to remember your place and not push your luck too far."

"No sir. I do what you tell me to do. I stick up for you. No one is going to say a bad word about you when I'm around. You can bet on that," states Corbin.

At Corbin's words, a spark of something - admiration, perhaps, or begrudging respect - flashes in Draco's eyes before he quickly masks it with his usual haughty expression. He nods curtly, acknowledging Camron's loyalty, however misplaced it may be. "That's correct, Camron. You've proven yourself useful in that regard. Just remember to keep your mouth shut and follow orders, and we won't have any problems." Draco turns to leave, pausing at the door to glance back over his shoulder. "Oh, and one more thing. If you ever breathe a word about...certain events or conversations to anyone, especially those outside our little circle, I won't hesitate to make an example of you. Do I make myself clear?" His tone brooks no argument, leaving no doubt about the severity of the warning he's issued.

"You can make an example of me any time you want Draco. Whatever is best for you. I'm your friend."

Draco's eyes widen in surprise at Corbin's declaration, his face twisting into a look of disgust. The idea that Camron would willingly identify as his 'friend' is abhorrent to him. "Don't be ridiculous, Camron," he sneers, his voice dripping with contempt. "I am not your friend. I am your superior, and you would do well to remember that." Draco strides back to stand towering over Corbin, his gaze cold and unyielding. "Your loyalty is appreciated, but misguided. You serve a purpose, nothing more. Never forget that." With a final, dismissive glance, he turns on his heel and starts to exit the room, leaving Corbin to ponder the true nature of their complicated relationship.

"Oh Draco, you mind if I borrow your old Nimbus 2001. I need to use it for Quidditch and I don't have one."

Draco pauses in the doorway, his shoulders stiffening at the request. After a long, tense moment, he turns to face Corbin again, his expression unreadable. "The Nimbus 2001? That's a rather valuable broomstick, Camron. One I've grown quite fond of, considering its...family history." He walks back over to Corbin, looming over him imposingly. "Tell me, what makes you think I'd simply lend it to you? You've shown no inclination to return favors or demonstrate gratitude in the past." Draco's eyes narrow, a calculating glint in their depths. "Unless...you plan to offer something in exchange? Perhaps a service or piece of information that could prove useful to me?"

"Well, you don't use it since you got your new broom. Now, you always ride your firebolt."

Draco's jaw clenches at the mention of his prized Firebolt, a flash of possessiveness crossing his face. He takes a step closer to Corbin, his voice low and menacing. "You dare imply that I would allow you to use such a magnificent broom for anything related to you, Camron? Especially after everything I've done to acquire it?" He leans in, his breath hot against Corbin's ear. The Nimbus 2001 is mine, and mine alone. It represents my status, my skill, and my destiny. You wouldn't know the first thing about understanding its value." Draco pulls back, his eyes blazing with intensity. "So, no, I won't be lending you, my Nimbus. Not now, not ever. You'll find another way to satisfy your flying needs, Camron. This isn't open for discussion."

"Well, I guess I won't be able to pick up your surprise."

Draco's eyebrows shoot up in surprise at Corbin's comment, clearly not expecting that response. For a moment, he seems taken aback, struggling to maintain his composure. "What...what are you talking about, Camron?"

"I had a surprise for you, but now I won't be able to get it."

At Corbin's words, Draco's interest piqued, curiosity getting the better of him despite his attempts to appear nonchalant. He raises an eyebrow, tilting his head slightly to the side. "A surprise for me, you say? Well, well...this ought to be interesting," he drawls, a hint of amusement coloring his tone. "Do go on, Camron. What exactly did you have planned for me?" Despite himself, Draco finds himself leaning forward, eager to hear what Corbin might reveal. He's never been one to pass up an opportunity to gain an advantage or uncover a secret, and if Camron thinks he has something that could benefit Draco, then all the better.

"I can't tell you, then it wouldn't be a surprise."

Draco's lips curl into a smirk at Corbin's evasive response, recognizing the typical Camron stubbornness. He chuckles softly, shaking his head in mock disappointment. "Oh, come now, Camron. Don't be childish. If you've gone to the trouble of preparing a surprise, surely you can share the details with me. After all, I am doing you a favor by even considering your proposal." He steps closer, his voice taking on a persuasive edge. "Think of it this way: if you trust me enough to confide in me, I might just decide to overlook our previous differences and grant you access to the Nimbus after all. But only if you convince me that whatever you have planned is worthy of my attention." Draco's eyes gleam with challenge, daring Corbin to rise to the bait and reveal more about the mysterious surprise.

"Well, it doesn't matter anyway because I can't get it so I don't want to tell you and have you be disappointed."

A flicker of irritation crosses Draco's face at Corbin's obstinate refusal to budge. He scowls, his patience wearing thin. "Disappointed? Ha! I highly doubt that, Camron. You seem far too pleased with yourself over this whole ordeal," he sneers, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "But very well, keep your precious secret. It's not as though I care either way." Draco turns on his heel, ready to exit and put an end to this fruitless conversation. "Just remember, if you change your mind about needing a broomstick, you know where to find me. Though I warn you, my generosity has its limits. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have more important matters to attend to than indulging your whims, Camron."

"So you will loan me the broomstick if I get the surprise?"

At Corbin's question, Draco pauses in the doorway, his hand resting on the knob as he considers the boy's words. A slow, calculating smile spreads across his face, revealing a glimpse of the cunning strategist beneath the arrogant facade. "Now that you mention it, Camron...yes, I suppose I could be persuaded to reconsider lending you the Nimbus," he says, turning back to face Corbin with a condescending smirk. "After all, it would be a shame for such a fine broom to go to waste, especially when it could be put to good use by someone as...dedicated as you." Draco's eyes glint with anticipation, sensing the potential for leverage in this unexpected turn of events. "However, I must insist on certain conditions being met."

"Sure, Draco."

Draco's smile widens, pleased with Corbin's eagerness to agree to terms. He strides back over to the boy, leaning in close, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Excellent. Then let's discuss these conditions, shall we?" He straightens up, pacing slowly around Corbin as if inspecting a prize specimen. "Firstly, you will provide me with detailed information about this 'surprise' you were planning to bestow upon me. Every last detail, Camron. I want to know what you hoped to gain from it and why you thought it was worth my time." Draco stops in front of Corbin, his gaze piercing. "Secondly, once you obtain said item or knowledge, you will promptly deliver it to me. No excuses, no delays. I expect immediate compliance, understood?"

"Sure, I will give you all the details as soon as I deliver it," confirms Corbin.

Draco nods, seemingly satisfied with Corbin's agreement. He steps back, folding his arms across his chest as he regards the boy with a critical eye. "Very well, Camron. We have a deal, then. I'll loan you Nimbus 2001 in exchange for you delivering the surprise. Just remember, I'm doing you a favor here. Don't forget it." With that, Draco turns on his heel once more, heading for the door."Now, if you'll excuse me, I have more pressing matters to attend to. See that you don't disappoint me, Camron. The Malfoys do not tolerate failure lightly."

When Draco returns to his dormitory, he spots a Puffskein perched on the table, its feathers ruffled and eyes wide with excitement. For a moment, he freezes, his expression a mask of confusion before shifting to one of suspicion. "What in Merlin's name is this creature doing here?" he demands, stalking over to the table with a frown. "And how did it manage to sneak in without anyone noticing?" Draco reaches out a hand, hesitating briefly before gently stroking the Puffskein's soft plumage. The bird nuzzles his palm, cooing contentedly. "Well, well...it seems you've brought me a little gift, haven't you, Camron?" he murmurs, a sly grin spreading across his face. "A token of your appreciation for my generosity, perhaps?" The Puffskein licks Draco's hand with a long pink tongue and makes a low humming sound when Draco pets it.

Draco's eyes widen slightly at the Puffskein's enthusiastic display, a flicker of surprise crossing his features before he regains his composure. He continues petting the bird, finding a strange sense of comfort in its gentle hum and the warmth of its tongue against his skin. "Fascinating," he remarks, his voice tinged with a mix of curiosity and disdain. "It seems this creature has taken quite a liking to me. Almost as if it senses the superiority that comes with pure blood heritage." Draco leans in closer, his lips lightly kissing the Puffskein's ear as he whispers, "Tell me, Camron...what secrets does this animal hold within its simple, feathered brain? And why should I care about them?" His gaze locks onto Corbin's, challenging him to explain the purpose behind this unusual gift.

"The only secret it has is love. Why wouldn't you care about something that loves you?"

For a moment, Draco is taken aback by Corbin's words, a rare vulnerability flashing in his eyes before he quickly masks it with his usual arrogance. He scoffs, rolling his eyes dismissively. "Love? Bah! Such sentimental nonsense," he spits out, his voice dripping with contempt. "Animals may be capable of affection, but they lack the sophistication, the intellect to truly understand the complexities of human relationships." Draco steps back, releasing the Puffskein which flutters down to the floor, still cooing softly. "Besides, I have no need for the emotional entanglements muggles seem so fond of. My loyalties lie with family, with power, with the preservation of our noble bloodlines. That is what truly matters in this world, not some fleeting feeling of 'love'."

The Puffskein jumps back into Draco's arms and falls asleep.

Startled by the sudden return of the Puffskein, Draco instinctively wraps his arms around the small creature, cradling it against his chest. As he watches it drift off to sleep, a faint look of wonder creeps into his expression, swiftly replaced by a scowl as he tries to maintain his aloof demeanor. "This is unacceptable," he mutters under his breath, glaring at the slumbering Puffskein."You're supposed to be a messenger, not some clingy lapdog!" Despite his harsh words, Draco makes no move to dislodge the bird, his fingers absently stroking its soft feathers as he stands there, lost in thought. The quiet intimacy of the moment feels foreign to him, a sensation he is not accustomed to experiencing.

"I think you are his now, Draco. What are you going to name him?"

Draco's gaze snaps up to meet Corbin's, a flash of indignation burning in his eyes at the suggestion that he belonged to the Puffskein. However, as he looks down at the sleeping creature nestled in his arms, a begrudging acceptance begins to seep into his expression. "A name...well, I suppose it's only fitting," he concedes, his tone heavy with reluctance. "Something suitable for a Malfoy-owned animal, naturally." Draco's mind races, searching for a title that reflects his status and lineage while also acknowledging the peculiar bond forming between them. After a moment, a name emerges, spoken with a hint of pride and possessiveness. "I shall call him Argentum. It means silver in Latin, a nod to his sleek, shimmering plumage."

The Puffskein humms in his sleep as if acknowledging his name. At the Puffskein's response, Draco can't help but feel a spark of satisfaction, despite himself. He strokes Argentum's feathers again, marveling at the way the light catches their iridescent sheen.

"Well, well...it seems even a creature like you can recognize a superior choice when presented with one," he muses, a touch of smugness creeping into his voice. "Perhaps there's more to you than meets the eye, Argentum." Draco carries the Puffskein over to his desk, setting it down gently among his books and scrolls. He pulls up a chair and sits beside the bird, watching intently as it stirs in its sleep, occasionally letting out a soft coo or chirp. "You know, Camron, I never thought I'd find myself growing attached to anything you touched."

"My uncle always says that even a stopped watch is right twice a day. Guess I just got lucky twice. Once with you and once with Argentum."

Draco raises an eyebrow at Corbin's comment, a wry smile playing on his lips. "Your uncle sounds like a wit, Camron. Though I suppose even the most uninspired minds can stumble upon occasional truths by chance alone." He leans back in his chair, eyeing the Puffskein as it stretches languidly, its wings fluttering open before settling back against its body. "In my experience, however, even the most unlikely occurrences often serve a greater purpose. Perhaps Argentum here is meant to be more than just a mere pet or messenger." Draco's gaze shifts back to Corbin, a glimmer of intrigue in his eyes. "Tell me, Camron...do you believe in fate? In the idea that every event, no matter how random or insignificant it may seem, contributes to the grand tapestry of destiny?"

"I believe that fate is what we make of it."

Draco's lips curve into a smirk at Corbin's philosophical response, though there's a hint of respect beneath his mocking exterior. "Ah, the eternal optimist. Always believing in the power of free will, even in the face of overwhelming odds." He reaches out to idly twirl a lock of Argentum's feathers, watching the way the light dances through the delicate strands. "And yet, sometimes I wonder...perhaps there are forces beyond our control at work, guiding us toward outcomes we cannot fully comprehend." Draco's gaze intensifies, his voice taking on a darker tone. "After all, look at the circumstances that brought you and I together, Camron. Two boys from vastly different worlds, bound by threads of fate and circumstance. Coincidence? Or something more sinister at play?"

"That's a mystery for another day," says Corbin as he takes his Nimbus 2001 and flies away."

Draco watches Corbin depart with a mixture of relief and lingering curiosity. He turns back to Argentum, who is now awake and regarding him with bright, curious eyes. "Well, it seems our companion has flown the coop," Draco remarks, rising from his seat and stretching languidly. "But I suppose that's for the best. We have our own affairs to attend to, don't we, Argentum?" With a final pat on the Puffskein's head, Draco strides out of the room, leaving the door slightly ajar behind him. As he descends the stairs, his thoughts drift back to the enigmatic encounter with Corbin, and the unspoken understanding that had momentarily bridged their bitter rivalry.